Dakota State University advances Andrew Sogn to vice president

October 26, 2026

MADISON, S.D. - Dakota State University has promoted Andrew Sogn to vice president for strategic communications and institutional affairs, effective Oct. 22, 2026.

The expanded position builds on Sogn's leadership of marketing and communications, combining responsibility for university-wide messaging and institutional reputation with a broader role in external engagement. Sogn will help shape how DSU communicates and advances its priorities, accomplishments, and direction, while working with President John R. Ballard and other university leaders to coordinate high profile external relationships and further DSU's initiatives.

Vice President for Strategic Communications and Institutional Affairs Andrew Sogn

"Andrew understands that the way a university communicates is inseparable from how it leads, serves, and earns the trust of others," Ballard said. "He brings sound judgment, a strong understanding of Dakota State, and the ability to turn shared priorities into action for our students, our partners, and the people of South Dakota. In this expanded role, he will help us strengthen our reputation, advance strategic relationships, and ensure that our story reflects the meaningful work taking place across the university."

As vice president, Sogn will oversee DSU's institutional messaging and reputation strategy, including strategic communications, crisis and emerging issue communications, executive communications, and university spokesperson responsibilities. His portfolio will also extend beyond traditional communications to include selected external relationships, presidential initiatives, and cross-university efforts that require coordination, strategic alignment, and sustained engagement with internal and external stakeholders.

"I'm grateful to President Ballard and colleagues across the university for the opportunity to continue serving Dakota State University in this new capacity," Sogn said. "From day one with President Ballard, our conversations have focused on vision, impact, and innovation. Bringing those ideas to life means being intentional about how we communicate, build relationships, and connect DSU's mission to the people and communities we serve.

"Our reputation should reflect the talent, accomplishments, and ambition of the dedicated people who make this university what it is. It's a privilege to work alongside colleagues who care deeply about Dakota State, and I look forward to what we can all accomplish together."

Sogn, who joined DSU as chief marketing officer in June 2024, will continue to provide executive oversight for DSU's Marketing and Communications, University Events, and University Production Center functions. As chief marketing officer, Sogn guided institutional brand strategy and external marketing efforts while advising university leadership on communications and public perception.

Before joining Dakota State, Sogn held several positions at South Dakota State University, most recently as assistant director of marketing and communications. His higher-education career has included institutional marketing and communications, social media and storytelling strategy, and collegiate athletics, with previous service at Washburn University, Fort Hays State University, and Middle Tennessee State University.

Sogn holds a master's degree from Fort Hays State University and a bachelor's degree from Augustana University. He is also a graduate of the Leadership South Dakota Class of 2026.

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